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Shutter vs. Shudder vs. Stutter

December 20, 2017 - pdf

Since they all look the same when written down or sound the same when pronounced, the words shutter, shudder, and stutter become interchangeable to some. But they have completely different meanings.

Let’s take a look at their correct usage below:

Shutter is basically “one that shuts.” It is “a usually movable cover or screen for a window or door” or “a mechanical device that limits the passage of light, especially a camera component that allows light to enter by opening and closing an aperture”

First of all, a blind or shutter is going to cut out most of the natural light in that room and you will most likely never open it.
Cross Timbers Gazette

How Much Do Plantation Shutters Cost, and How Do They Pay Off?
Realtor

Dismantling of shutter gate continues at KRP dam
The Hindu

As a verb, shutter means “to close by or as if by shutters.”

Incoming NYC Transit boss says he may shutter some train lines for repairs, upgrades: ‘It will be worth the pain’
New York Daily News

Toys R Us to shutter 25% of UK stores
Retail Dive

Popular Austin neighborhood restaurant shutters as wave of closures continues
Culture Map

On the other hand, shudder means “to tremble convulsively.” Its synonyms are “shiver” and “quiver.”

This drink-drive near miss will make you shudder
Irish Examiner

Prince Harry shudders upon hearing the word ‘husband’ during interview with Meghan Markle – then has adorable response
Mirror

Just the thought of a root canal makes many shudder, but perhaps even more terrifying is a repeat root canal if the first one wasn’t effective.
Inside Indiana Business

The third word, stutter, functions as a verb meaning “to speak with involuntary disruption or blocking of speech (as by repetition or prolongation of vocal sounds)” or “to move or act in a halting or spasmodic manner.” Take a look at these sentences with the word stutter:

Should I get special treatment because I stutter?
Salon

People who stutter can do something about it. I know. I’m one of them.
The Washington Post

Kids who stutter have ‘reduced blood flow to key part of their brains’
The Sun

Now, can you write your own sentences using each of the words above? Let us know below!

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